Thanksgiving is a time when we open our homes to friends, family, and often our community. We gather to reflect on our blessings as a nation and to thank our Father who promises a seed time and a harvest. It is good to give thanks.

For the second year in a row we are being told that families should not get together because of the pandemic.

Some people want to cancel Thanksgiving altogether because of what they consider an oversimplification of the history behind the holiday, a feast shared with the local Indian tribe.

Others are offended by a proclamation of Thanksgiving meant to "acknowledge the providence of Almighty God."

President Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, praying that "the Almighty Hand would heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it." Our land needs healing and restoration. It is good to give thanks.

May this Thanksgiving be a time of healing and restoration for our families, communities, our state, and our nation. May we recognize and be thankful to God for seed time and harvest.

This Thanksgiving and everyday, may the Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.

- Rebecca